Atout France India recently conducted its first in-person activity for the B2B segment with the B2B Showcase that saw a record turnout by French tourism partners, eager to capitalize on a booming outbound tourism market in India.

Atout France India, the official tourism organisation of France recently organised its B2B showcase in a high-profile event in Udaipur. Held from September 25-29 in the City of Lakes, the workshop saw a record participation of 42 tourism companies from France and more than 80 travel professionals from all over India. According to a press statement, the first offline workshop since 2019 witnessed over 2000 meetings taking place over two days of productive one-to-one meetings between buyers and suppliers.

The press statement adds that besides the individual B2B meetings between French and Indian tourism stakeholders, this year’s edition also had two thematic panels on weddings and cinema, the two segments that have seen a strong rebound in terms of travel to France. These panels saw a lively interaction between experts of these domains and the French suppliers, says the press release.

The workshop, which also marked 15 years of Atout France’s direct presence in India, began with a welcome evening for partners on September 25 at the Jagmandir Palace in the presence of Ambassador of France to India Emmanuel Lenain. Each evening a thematic soiree was organised to encourage informal interactions between the partners and the trade representatives.

A gala night was also organised on September 27 in association with La Vallée Village, a member of the Bicester Collection. The press statement says that aptly titled, “Bling it On”, the soirée, held at the Taj Fateh Prakash hotel, was a celebration of luxury.

“This edition of the workshop was much awaited as our last two editions took place virtually. The response from both our partners and agents has been overwhelming and we are grateful for all the support that we have received through the years in our endeavour in showcasing France in the Indian tourism landscape. A formidable representation of France’s touristic offering indicates the strong interest in the Indian market and on the other hand, the presence of our trade partners only reinforces France’s strong appeal for the Indian traveler. We were extremely honoured by the presence of His Excellency, the Ambassador who despite his busy agenda took the time out to support our workshop. A sincere thank you is also due to La Vallée Village, our partner for the Gala dinner, our wedding and cinema panelists and of course the French Institute in India who helped us organise the cinema panel,” says Sheetal Munshaw, Director Atout France India.